A Royal Home – Kensington Palace

In honor of Prince William and Catherine Middleton becoming first-time parents any day now, furrylittlegnome thought it would be most fitting for all of you to get a glimpse of their home: Kensington Palace. Located in West London, in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Kensington Palace has been an official royal residence since the late 1600s. The first monarch to inhabit this palace was King William III and Queen Mary II who purchased “Nottingham House” because the King was suffering from respiratory problems. His previous residence was on the polluted Thames River of Whitehall Palace and moving to the roaming pastures of West London would do his lungs some good. Numerous additions were added, by Sir Christopher Wren, and the move seemed to do some good. King William III’s died inside the palace in 1702 – not long after falling off of a horse. A statue of him is front and center just inside the palace gates. Other royal inhabitants include Queen Victoria, who was born at Kensington Palace in 1819, and of course, Princess Diana, who called the palace home until her death in 1997.
It was not until furrylittlegnome’s most recent trip here did she realize how magnificent the Sunken Garden is. Part of the larger palace gardens, the Sunken Garden was planted in 1908 and is surrounded by a pond and colorful flower beds just outside the palace walls.

While gnome was walking around, she took this photo. Is there a royal resident on the other side of these windows?
As furrylittlegnome was making her way over to High Street, she past the royal driveway. She looked quickly and was amazed at all of the security. Speaking of security, right after the driveway is Palace Avenue – a tree lined private street that is heavily guarded as lots of embassies are housed here. Gnome is not kidding. Guns were visible and security was tight.
Next week, we will celebrate the birth of an heir and go inside Kensington Palace. It is a magical sight!

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